The Districts of Peachland and Summerland are urging the province to address ongoing transportation challenges on Highway 97.
In a letter to Transportation Minister Mike Farnworth, the districts have requested a meeting to discuss the need for a reliable secondary route between the two communities.
鈥淗ighway 97 between Peachland and Summerland has experienced unprecedented impacts due to unplanned closures in recent years,鈥� the letter states. Examples include a complete closure in February 2019, a landslide in spring 2023, and a rockslide in August 2023 that remains unresolved. Closures caused by wildfires, downed power lines, and accidents have also disrupted travel.
A typical drive between Peachland and Summerland takes about 20 minutes. But when the highway is closed, drivers are forced to take a nearly 300-kilometre detour along Highway 97C, Highway 5A, and Highway 3. A three hour drive.
While the forestry road known as 鈥淭rout Main鈥� is an alternate, it is poorly maintained and not suitable for most vehicles. 鈥淲e have been told it will not be used as a bypass this year,鈥� the letter notes. The districts argue that a permanent secondary route is essential.
The communities have invited the minister to visit the area and view the rockslide and other problem spots firsthand. If that鈥檚 not possible, they hope to meet with him in Victoria to discuss potential solutions, including paving and signage improvements on alternative routes.
